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Diet for Bipolar Disorder

Bipolar disorder, also known as manic depression, is a mental illness that involves episodes of manic behavior (highs) and episodes of depression (lows). The episodes can last anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. It's very important for bipolar disorder sufferers to watch their diet in order to help lessen the effects of manic and depressive episodes.

  1. Omega 3 Fatty Acid

    • The richest dietary source of omega 3 fatty acid is fish. Some great fish choices include salmon, herring and mackerel. Surveys have shown that countries where people eat high amounts of fish have less depression. Though research is still ongoing, omega 3 fatty acids have also been shown to lessen stress and aid in focusing. Some other sources of omega 3 fatty acids include flaxseed or flaxseed oil or taking a fish oil supplement.

    Lean Protein

    • Protein is beneficial to all types of diets and it's important because protein helps to repair and build muscle tissue. Some good sources of lean protein include chicken, lean cuts of red meat and turkey. There are also a number of protein shake supplements available for those who do not eat meat.

    Complex Carbohydrates

    • Carbohydrates are an essential energy source for the body, but it's important to choose complex carbohydrates. Carbohydrates are broken down inside the body and turn to glucose, which is a sugar. If too much sugar is consumed, it will affect the body's blood sugar levels which will in turn affect the brain and mood. Complex carbohydrates are found mostly in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. Foods like apples, oranges, peaches, grapefruit, carrots, Brussels sprouts, beans and whole wheat bread are great sources of complex carbohydrates.

    What to Avoid

    • If bipolar disorder is evident, it's best to avoid alcohol, caffeine, excess sugar and refined foods. When refined foods like white breads, pasta and rice are consumed, the mood-enhancing Vitamin B is used up. These particular food items do not provide a good amount of nutrients and they can also leave blood sugar levels unstable. When blood sugar levels are unstable, the mood is highly likely to also become unstable.

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